You will need

Step 1Decide on a location Decide on a location; any good-size backyard will do. Or consider asking town leaders about organizing a community event at a local park.

Step 2Invite people Inform guests of the date in advance of Halloween so they keep their pumpkins. Arrange to pick up any from friends who can’t attend.

Step 3Get WMPDs Gather weapons of mass pumpkin destruction, like hammers and slingshots. If you have an outdoor wall, designate a part of it for pumpkin hurling. Or let people drop pumpkins from a high place, like a balcony or ladder.

Step 4Feed your guests Serve snacks and beverages, or have a barbecue. Ask guests to bring their leftover Halloween candy.

Step 5Collect the pumpkin parts Once all the pumpkins are smashed to smithereens, collect the pieces and toss them into your compost pile, or divvy them up among the guests. No compost? Bury them in your garden. Just be sure there are no stray seeds — unless you want to grow your own pumpkin patch!